DPS major dies at 69
Major Grant Williams, who worked in Syracuse University’s Department of Public Safety for 40 years, died Friday after a long illness.
DPS Chief Tony Callisto sent an e-mail to the university community Tuesday that honored and remembered Williams.
‘Grant will be remembered most for the positive impact he had on students and the great caring that he showed in his interactions with students and parents,’ Callisto said in the e-mail.
Williams began his career at SU in 1969, and was assigned to the canine unit for more than 20 years. During his time at DPS, he also worked in the patrol, investigations and crime prevention units.
Williams was most recently the assistant director for crime prevention and community relations.
In addition to his work at DPS, Williams played a major role in Conversations About Race and Ethnicity, an intergroup dialogue program at SU, and was a member and the 2006 chair of the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee. He was also helped with safety for SU Athletics.
‘For the past two decades, Grant could be found behind the player’s bench for SU men’s basketball and football home games, acting not only as a guardian for player and coach safety but also as a friend and mentor to team members and staff,’ Callisto said in the e-mail.
In a Web site set up in memory of Williams on legacy.com, visitors have a chance to express their condolences and share memories.
Williams, 69, is survived by his wife, three sons and four grandchildren. Calling hours are Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Farone & Son Funeral Home on 1500 Park St. in Syracuse. Williams’ funeral services will be on Saturday at 11 a.m. at Hendricks Chapel.
Published on December 1, 2009 at 12:00 pm
